Virgin and Child 1430 - 1465

This marble relief sculpture, "Virgin and Child," was created by Donatello, one of the most influential Renaissance artists, sometime between 1430 and 1465. The work depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the Christ child, a popular subject in religious art. Donatello's mastery of the human form is evident in the delicate rendering of their features and the naturalism of their postures. The work's realistic portrayal of the subject reflects the growing influence of humanism during the Renaissance, a movement that emphasized reason and human experience. The sculpture's intricate details and delicate handling of the subject matter make it a testament to Donatello's skill and artistry, and it is now considered a masterpiece of Renaissance art.